Introduction

[[Mr...]]

Hello,

 

I've joined benzo buddies because I'm interested in other's experiences with benzos. I've been taking between .25 to 1mg of Klonopin as needed for about 25 years. For the past 10 years or so, I rarely take more than .50 at any given time. But I am concerned about being on it for so long. Problem is, for my particular flavor of anxiety, this stuff has been the ONLY thing that has ever worked for me, but I also don't want to be on it forever. So, I'm joining to find out more about maybe getting off it.

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum! We're glad  to have you as a new member.

 

You'll find lots of information and support here.  Our members have been through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to find  people who understand what you're going through.

 

For those who are starting a new taper, we suggest reducing no faster than 5-10% every 10-14 days at first, and then adjusting the taper rate to suit your own needs.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal, especially near the end of a taper and for a few months after discontinuing the medication.  First/only withdrawals after a slow taper tend to be easier than multiple reinstatements/withdrawals over time, which may make symptoms worse and longer lasting. The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia, but there are many others. These are temporary and will go away in time.

 

Here are a few links you may find useful:

 

Withdrawal Support Board

 

The Ashton Manual is an authoritative source on what to expect in withdrawal and recovery.  Dr. Ashton is an expert in the field. Section III explains and describes symptoms, and there is also a section with suggested taper schedules.

 

Please take the time to Create a Signature.  This will allow others to see where you are in the process so they can better support you.

 

Again, welcome!

 

 

[[Mr...]]

Thank you, Megan, for the lovely welcome as well as taper information. I look forward to having this site as a resource, and hopefully I can contribute as well.

 

I was put on Klonopin in 1992 for severe panic attacks. I've been taking it ever since on an as-needed basis. The most I ever took at once was 1mg. And there were periods where I didn't take it for weeks or several months. Still, I took between.25 and 1mg on and off for 25 damn years.

 

In 2008 I began to have panic X 1000, with an added feature that I can only describe as a head fog of utter despair without an apperent cause. The external circumstances of my life were not bad. Yet, I awoke one night at 3:00am feeling like I was being pulled into an abyss of horror, insanity and hopelessness. To this day, I don't know if that was the benzo or a "legitimate" psychological breakdown. Since then, I have improved but I am still taking .5mg on most days. Also, I am on 30mg of Remeron for depression. Again, I don't know if the depression is the benzo or "organic." When I was originally put on Klonopin, I was not depressed.

 

So, that's my current situation. I look forward to reading other people's stories here.

 

Thanks again.

[[Wi...]]

Its surprising that its still working after so many years ie you dont seem to be experiencing tolerance withdrawal which is the main reason why most people want to stop to begin with. Good luck!